Ambition is a treacherous thing,
turning the moment into
a mere backdrop of expectations,
tightening pressure and tainting the light.
If only the borders between
light and shade were blurred
it might be the most powerful tool
to change the world.
A year without compromise, indeed.
Expectations growing high,
pressure rising,
waiting for release.
The cocoon, warm and cozy,
always lurking in the background.
The either and the or
insufferable companions
assuming a choice has to be made.
I refuse. The only thing I choose is openness.
Another year over. It was the year of “gentleness” for me – or at least that’s what I had in mind when I started 2011. And rightfully so: We had to navigate a couple of tough transitions and overall change in these past twelve months. But the time of gentleness is over. The word that keeps coming up for 2012 is “kompromisslos”, German for “without compromise” or “uncompromising”. For me, this would have predominantely negative connotations in any other context but this; here, it means no more compromises with regard to beauty, happiness, creativity and taste. No more settling for less. I have the strong urge to change things, to get rid of what is unwanted and unnecessary, to get as close to a clean slate as possible. Letting go is one big part of being uncompromising, funnily enough.
So let’s see, 2012, how we will get along.
I am very happy to announce that I can cross one item off off my list: I have seen a business idea through from beginning to end, and one that’s dear to my heart, too (weeeee!)! It’s a precious, handmade book for friends, for the people closest to our heart, a place to keep them with us at all times. Even the first touch tells you how much love was put into making it. I am a very tactile person, so I took care that it feels good to the touch, solid yet tender, so that you will be glad to take it out of the shelf again and again. I designed the book with my dear friend, graphic designer, newly-wed and soon-to-be mum Maren Chur. She took care it looks really pretty! The questions inside are original, quirky and funny; once answered, they will make this book a precious memory of those we let inside – the book and our lives!
The first edition is in German, but I have an English edition ready to go, so stay tuned!
For the German readers: You can have a look at it here.
The Mindwheels 